MARE Admission and Degree Requirements

Admission Requirements
  • Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.
  • Six undergraduate credits in theology or religious studies from a Catholic College. Equivalencies such as diocesan certification, years of experience in religious education ministry or having a master’s degree will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
  • Students with a bachelor’s degree that is without theology/religious studies credits may, upon the approval of the Director, participate in an online reading, research and writing project.
  • Up to nine graduate credits may be transferred provided they are from an accredited Catholic college or university, a grade of “B” or higher was earned, and the content is similar to MARE Program core courses as determined by the Program Director. Transfer credit cannot be applied to the Graduate or Post-Masters Certificate Programs.
  • Letter of recommendation from a pastor, parish catechetical leader, principal, or diocesan
administrator attesting to your ability to pursue graduate studies in religious education/
faith formation ministry.
  • Interview by phone or in person with the Program Director.
  • Reading/writing sample as determined by the Program Director.
  • Ministerial discount form.
  • Notarized copy of a valid passport (photo page with signature) or
notarized copy of a valid government-issued photo (such as a driver’s license)
Degree Requirements
Master of Art in Religious Education
  • Maintain a B- average in all 11 required courses
Post Masters Certificate Requirements*
  • Possess a master’s degree in theology, ministry, or a related field
  • Complete 24 credits
  • Maintain a B- average in all courses
Graduate Certificate Requirements*
  • Possess a bachelor’s degree with 3 to 6 undergraduate religious studies credits or equivalents
  • Complete 18 credits
  • Maintain a B- average in all courses

*RELS 506, The Psychology and Pedagogy of Religious Education, is a mandatory course for both graduate and post-master’s certificate students. The remaining courses are selected in consultation with the program administrator.